Episode 79: Emerging Technologies in Helicopter Maintenance

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.Recorded live at the inaugural Vertical MRO Conference in Kelowna, British Columbia, this episode features a panel discussion on one of the industry’s most transformative topics: Technology and the future of rotorcraft maintenance.Hosted by Jon Gray, this conversation brings together Seth Hardage, CEO of Rotorcraft Repair and Manufacturing; Ronnie Ries, vice president of marketing at GPMS; and Joaquin DeMoreta, CEO and founder of Digital AirWare. Together, they explore how cutting-edge technologies — from health and usage monitoring systems (HUMS) to predictive maintenance and digital data integration — are redefining how maintainers troubleshoot, prevent issues, and keep aircraft mission-ready.The panel dives into the changing role of technology in day-to-day maintenance, discussing how smarter tools and connected systems are improving efficiency, enhancing safety, and helping retain a new generation of technicians.From vibration analysis to data-driven diagnostics, the experts share how innovation is transforming rotorcraft maintenance from a reactive process to a predictive science — and why embracing technology is key to the industry’s future success.This live panel captures the spirit of collaboration and forward thinking that defined the Kelowna conference, where maintenance professionals, engineers, and innovators came together to shape what’s next for the rotorcraft maintenance, repair and overhaul community.Special thanks to our sponsors, Precision Aviation Group, Robinson Helicopter and Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing.